MÉRIDA, Mexico – In a strategic move to solidify its presence in international markets and stimulate the local economy, Yucatán is preparing for the 2026-2027 winter season with a significant expansion of air connectivity to Canada, one of its most strategic tourism source regions.

The initiative, coordinated by the Secretariat of Tourism Development (Sefotur), aims to capitalize on the North American market. Data from the Yucatán Tourism Market Intelligence System (Simty) reveals that North America currently accounts for 49.7% of the state’s international tourism, with the United States contributing 40.2% and Canada 9.5%.

The upcoming winter schedule features the reactivation and launch of three key routes operated by Canadian airlines directly to Mérida:

• Toronto–Mérida (WestJet): Operating from October 25 to April 22, 2027. The route will offer three weekly frequencies between October and April, increasing to four from January to March, using aircraft with a capacity of 174 passengers.
• Toronto–Mérida (Air Canada): Operations will begin on November 21 and run through April 12, 2027. This service will offer two weekly frequencies on approximately four-hour flights with a capacity of 137 passengers.
• Calgary–Mérida (WestJet): This seasonal route will connect Western Canada with the Yucatán capital from December 17 to April 1, 2027, providing a weekly flight with 174 seats available per journey.

These new options will supplement Mérida’s existing permanent links with key U.S. cities such as Miami, Dallas, Houston, and Orlando, further diversifying travel options for international visitors.

The arrival of these direct flights during the end of 2026 and early 2027 is expected to streamline travel planning and strengthen the state’s entire tourism value chain. Hotels, restaurants, service providers, and small local businesses are poised to benefit from a more consistent influx of international tourists eager to discover Yucatán’s cultural and historical heritage.